How to Survive a Really Long Flight
Turns out that you can not only survive but actually enjoy a long-haul flight!
Well, the quick solution would be to fly first class of course! Then again it’s not something most of us can afford so why don’t we make the most of what we have! Here’s a few tips from the helpful people at NG!
Embrace your inner kid
Want to watch the original three Star Wars movies in a row? Go for it. Feel like asking for two helpings of ice cream? That’s your call. I know some people who swear by refusing alcohol, and even fasting, on long-haul flights. I say it’s the time to live it up. My strategy? Enjoy wine with dinner and pretend like it’s a snow day—the best excuse ever to binge-watch TV, or whatever else feels like pure indulgence.
Bring two levels of books
I used 
to watch hours of television and movies to pass the time on long flights, but now I really savor the opportunity to read. As time wears on in the air, my brain begins to crave lighter reading material. I start with books that I need to be fully engaged for, and then move on to quick entertaining page-turners.
Pack your own snacks even if the food is good
In a welcome development, many airlines—including Qantas, with Australian celebrity chef Neil Perry on board as advisor—have brought in top-shelf cooks to up their culinary game. I think there is something ceremonial about meal service on a plane, and look forward to the diversion a food break provides.
That said, I still like to pack my own snacks to have one last feeling of home when I’m en route, especially if I’m on my way to an unfamiliar place. My arsenal: mini peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches, homemade granola bars, and roasted vegetables in biodegradable containers that I can toss.
Chug water
You’ve probably heard this piece of advice a zillion times. But I’m here to reiterate it.
I used to get a subtle headache on nearly every long flight I took—until I forced myself to drink a ton of water. My tip: Overpay for a super-size bottled water at the airport newsstand before take-off and ask the flight attendants refill it for you throughout the trip.
Embrace your “plane-motional” self
I am pretty sure I made this up. Either way, it’s a great descriptor for what happens to me mid-flight, when the cabin lights dim and meal service is over.
I’m convinced that there’s something in the recycled air 35,000 feet up that magnifies your life and makes it feel more significant, especially when you have hours and hours on your hands. Seated among a sea of strangers, I seem to find newfound appreciation for family and friends, ruminate on past mistakes, and evaluate future opportunities. Use your air time to do the same.
Channel your creative energy—and give yourself a break
I’m often the one awake person on my flight, typing away at 1 a.m. I’ve written speeches, stories, love letters, to-do lists, and long overdue emails. But I also give myself permission to just veg when I’m not feeling particularly creative. My advice: When you feel motivated, lean into it. But also give yourself permission to just think or listen to music. Trust me; some of your best ideas and light-bulb moments will come in the quiet peace of a disconnected night, way above the clouds.
Savor the final descent
By the time the flight attendants turn on the jarringly bright lights to signal the beginning of the “descent phase,” my eyes are usually bleary and my energy nearly sapped. No matter how tired I feel, I make a point to use the final 15 minutes of the journey to mentally prepare myself for the adventure ahead. My vitality returns when my passport is finally stamped, a sound that, to me, represents total freedom. That, plus a large cup of coffee, sets me on my way, wherever I land.
